Vancouver Whitecaps | The Guardianhttp://www.theguardian.com/sport/vancouver-whitecaps
Latest news and features from theguardian.com, the world's leading liberal voiceen-gbGuardian News and Media Limited or its affiliated companies. All rights reserved. 2015Sun, 02 Aug 2015 19:03:29 GMT2015-08-02T19:03:29Zen-gbGuardian News and Media Limited or its affiliated companies. All rights reserved. 2015The Guardianhttp://assets.guim.co.uk/images/guardian-logo-rss.c45beb1bafa34b347ac333af2e6fe23f.pnghttp://www.theguardian.com
The best goals of the week: Kaká, Larsson, Lallana, McClean and Callerihttp://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/jul/21/best-goals-week-kaka-larsson-lallana-mcclean-calleri
<p>Featuring a rabona that lifted Diego Maradona off his seat, a long-range strike that brought a smile to Henrik Larsson’s face and a chip that helped USA thrash Cuba</p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QIBdJM4fjyo">Rodrigo Mora (RIVER PLATE v Guaran&iacute;)</a><br /></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0yo1t6c4zg8">Jordan Larsson (HELSINGBORG v AIK) </a><br /></p><p lang="en" dir="ltr">From the center circle to the back of the net. Bravo, <a href="https://twitter.com/KAKA">@KAKA</a>. Bravo. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ORLvWBA?src=hash">#ORLvWBA</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SCtop10?src=hash">#SCtop10</a> <a href="http://t.co/zlOIdzTvF7">pic.twitter.com/zlOIdzTvF7</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ULsvEY40Yi4">Danilo Moreno Asprilla (LITEX LOVECH v Ludogorets)</a><br /></p><p><a href="http://gfycat.com/MediocreOrdinaryCottontail">Portugal (at the Beach Football World Cup) </a><br /></p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/jul/21/best-goals-week-kaka-larsson-lallana-mcclean-calleri">Continue reading...</a>FootballSportMLSUS sportsOrlando CityKakáWest Bromwich AlbionUSAVancouver WhitecapsLiverpoolBoca JuniorsRiver PlateTue, 21 Jul 2015 10:55:06 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/jul/21/best-goals-week-kaka-larsson-lallana-mcclean-calleriPhotograph: Nigel Worrall/Demotix/CorbisKaká.Photograph: Nigel Worrall/Demotix/CorbisKaká.Paul Campbell2015-07-21T10:55:06ZHow the Colorado Rapids got their groove back, and Steven Gerrard's debuthttp://www.theguardian.com/sport/blog/2015/jul/20/how-the-colorado-rapids-got-their-groove-back-and-steven-gerrards-debut
<p>A few weeks ago, the Rapids looked dead and buried. But suddenly they’re clicking on and off the field<br></p><p>Just three weeks ago I wrote about <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/sport/blog/2015/jun/29/sounders-count-the-cost-of-dempseys-tantrum-and-red-bulls-own-new-york">the Colorado Rapids in this column</a>. At that time Pablo Mastroeni’s side were slumped at the foot of the Western Conference having gone six games without a win. They were - as was headlined - on course for an all-time worst offensive season, with just 12 goals from 17 fixtures. Maybe Mastroeni pinned that piece up on the locker room wall?<br /></p><p>Whatever the former US international midfielder has done, it has certainly worked. The Rapids have since won three back-to-back, lifting themselves off bottom place in the West and sparking an unlikely play-off charge. Eight points might be quite a sizeable deficit for Colorado to make up, but in their current form that gap could be bridged rather quickly. Where will the streak end?</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/sport/blog/2015/jul/20/how-the-colorado-rapids-got-their-groove-back-and-steven-gerrards-debut">Continue reading...</a>MLSFootballSportUS sportsColorado RapidsDC UnitedVancouver WhitecapsMon, 20 Jul 2015 09:00:06 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/sport/blog/2015/jul/20/how-the-colorado-rapids-got-their-groove-back-and-steven-gerrards-debutPhotograph: Isaiah J. Downing/USA Today SportsCelebrations are coming a familiar occurence for the Colorado Rapids.Graham Parker and Graham Ruthven2015-07-20T09:00:06ZMLS weekend preview: top stars absent again, and Toronto aim to enter elitehttp://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/jun/05/mls-weekend-preview-toronto-elite
<p>Bradley, Shea and Agudelo missing in action; no shape to the MLS standings; high-scoring KC host the Sounders, and Galaxy hope for Vancouver revenge</p><p>As if there wasn’t enough anger in America at Fifa in light of the events of the past 10 days or so – a span of time that feels more like a decade, whether you’re knee-deep in the endless jaw-dropping exposes or tired of the whole thing – now the world football governing body has deigned to designate this week for international matches. That means this weekend there will be several key absences, particularly among the American contingent with Friday’s friendly match between the USA and the Netherlands.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/jun/05/mls-weekend-preview-toronto-elite">Continue reading...</a>MLSToronto FCSeattle SoundersFootballSportUS sportsLA GalaxyVancouver WhitecapsDC UnitedFri, 05 Jun 2015 04:00:01 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/jun/05/mls-weekend-preview-toronto-elitePhotograph: Nick Turchiaro/USA Today SportsSebastian Giovinco goes past Portland Timbers midfielder Jack Jewsbury.Richard Whittall2015-06-05T04:00:01ZShock rout of Galaxy shows Orlando City may be closer than previously thoughthttp://www.theguardian.com/sport/2015/may/18/shock-rout-of-galaxy-shows-orlando-city-may-be-closer-than-previously-thought
<p>While Orlando City’s frontline is coming together nicely, fellow expansion club New York City FC is bottoming out</p><p>It had been coming. Two months after a sold out Citrus Bowl welcomed Orlando City into MLS, the Lions finally gave themselves something to truly celebrate in front of their own fans. Kaka scored the franchise’s first top-flight goal back in March and the Brazilian was instrumental in delivering its first home win at the sixth attempt, scoring and contributing an assist in a 4-0 thumping of the LA Galaxy.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/sport/2015/may/18/shock-rout-of-galaxy-shows-orlando-city-may-be-closer-than-previously-thought">Continue reading...</a>MLSFootballSportUS sportsOrlando CityLA GalaxyMontreal ImpactReal Salt LakeFC DallasNew York Red BullsNew York City FCChicago FireConcacaf Champions LeagueSeattle SoundersVancouver WhitecapsMon, 18 May 2015 10:36:27 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/sport/2015/may/18/shock-rout-of-galaxy-shows-orlando-city-may-be-closer-than-previously-thoughtPhotograph: Stephen M Dowell/APOrlando players Kaka and Cyle Larin hug after Larin’s goal on Sunday.Graham Parker and Graham Ruthven2015-05-18T10:36:27ZMLS weekend preview: Vancouver v Seattle is now a contest of equalshttp://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2015/may/15/mls-weekend-preview-vancouver-v-seattle-is-now-a-contest-of-equals
<p>A win for the Caps against the likes of Clint Dempsey and Obafemi Martins at BC Place this weekend will put Vancouver up there with the Western elite</p><p>The better clubs in Major League Soccer tend to have an effective player filling the one key role on which everything else hangs – the playmaker. Los Angeles have been subpar this season since Robbie Keane’s groin injury, Sporting Kansas City’s fortunes have depended on the form of Benny Feilhaber, and Marco Pappa has lately been as important as Obafemi Martins and Clint Dempsey to Seattle’s success. </p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2015/may/15/mls-weekend-preview-vancouver-v-seattle-is-now-a-contest-of-equals">Continue reading...</a>MLSFootballSportUS sportsVancouver WhitecapsSeattle SoundersToronto FCNew England RevolutionFC DallasNew York Red BullsFri, 15 May 2015 10:00:03 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2015/may/15/mls-weekend-preview-vancouver-v-seattle-is-now-a-contest-of-equalsPhotograph: Kyle Robertson/APObafemi Martins and Clint Dempsey have a tough test coming up against Vancouver.Photograph: Kyle Robertson/APObafemi Martins and Clint Dempsey have a tough test coming up against Vancouver.Richard Whittall2015-05-15T10:00:03ZMLS weekend preview: Is the league doomed to be a continental also-ran?http://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2015/may/01/mls-weekend-preview-is-the-league-doomed-to-be-a-continental-also-ran
<p>Montreal Impact suffered a chastening defeat in the Concacaf Champions League final but throwing money at the problem won’t solve anything<br></p><p>While the Montreal Impact won’t be playing this weekend, they will no doubt be on the minds of fans, players and analysts after becoming the second MLS club since Real Salt Lake to lose in a Concacaf Champions League final. Despite earning a precious away goal in a 1-1 draw against Club America at the Azteca last week, the Impact capitulated in the second half of Wednesday’s return leg against the Mexicans, losing 4-2 in Montreal’s Olympic Stadium, 5-3 on aggregate. It is the 31st title for a Mexican club in the competition’s history. </p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2015/may/01/mls-weekend-preview-is-the-league-doomed-to-be-a-continental-also-ran">Continue reading...</a>MLSMontreal ImpactPhiladelphia UnionToronto FCVancouver WhitecapsPortland TimbersHouston DynamoFC DallasFootballSportUS sportsFri, 01 May 2015 10:00:04 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2015/may/01/mls-weekend-preview-is-the-league-doomed-to-be-a-continental-also-ranPhotograph: Ryan Remiorz/APMontreal’s Laurent Ciman is consoled by club President Joey Saputo after their defeat in the Concacaf Champions League final.Photograph: Ryan Remiorz/APMontreal’s Laurent Ciman is consoled by club President Joey Saputo after their defeat in the Concacaf Champions League final.Richard Whittall2015-05-01T10:00:04ZDC United out to prove they're big fish in skimpy pond: MLS weekend previewhttp://www.theguardian.com/sport/blog/2015/apr/17/dc-united-out-to-prove-theyre-big-fish-in-skimpy-pond-mls-weekend-preview
<p>Ben Olsen’s side look to show they’re bona fide contenders despite weak conference, while teetering FC Dallas aim to right ship against Toronto FC</p><p>As many predicted, with the departure of both Houston and Sporting Kansas City to the Western Conference there is something of a power vacuum in the East. Perhaps the best evidence so far of the competitive decline is DC United. Though currently in first place with 10 points – two ahead of the New York Red Bulls – the team this season has thus far looked underwhelming. Their three victories have all been slim 1-0 affairs, some more fortuitous than others, and their home and away series against Atlantic Cup rivals New York Red Bulls resulted in a loss and a 2-2 draw contested last weekend at RFK Stadium.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/sport/blog/2015/apr/17/dc-united-out-to-prove-theyre-big-fish-in-skimpy-pond-mls-weekend-preview">Continue reading...</a>SportMLSFootballUS sportsDC UnitedReal Salt LakeVancouver WhitecapsOrlando CityColumbus CrewFC DallasToronto FCPortland TimbersFri, 17 Apr 2015 08:30:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/sport/blog/2015/apr/17/dc-united-out-to-prove-theyre-big-fish-in-skimpy-pond-mls-weekend-previewPhotograph: Tony Quinn/APPerry Kitchen’s two goals lifted DC United to a 2-2 draw last weekend at RFK Stadium.Richard Whittall2015-04-17T08:30:00ZThe brilliance of Bill Hamid and the glorious incompetence of Philadelphia Unionhttp://www.theguardian.com/sport/blog/2015/apr/06/the-glorious-incompetence-of-philadelphia-union-and-the-brilliance-of-bill-hamid
<p>Cartoonish misses and late lapses in concentration: Philly are unintentionally the most entertaining team in the league<br></p><p><strong>Philadelphia Union join race to the bottom in the East</strong></p><p>Midway through the second half of Sporting Kansas City’s entertaining mess of a match on Sunday night against Jim Curtin’s disunited Philadelphia Union, Fox1 urged viewers to “stay tuned for [the post-game show] Garbage Time!”, though in truth viewers needn’t have waited. Though it would be difficult to boil the game down to a single, defining moment amid the disallowed goals, Sporting KC’s two late goals, the headshot fouls, the cartoonish misses, Philly managed to choreograph a sequence that may go down as the essential metaphor for their 2015 season. </p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/sport/blog/2015/apr/06/the-glorious-incompetence-of-philadelphia-union-and-the-brilliance-of-bill-hamid">Continue reading...</a>MLSFootballSportUS sportsDC UnitedFC DallasPortland TimbersColorado RapidsOrlando CityNew England RevolutionPhiladelphia UnionSporting Kansas CityVancouver WhitecapsLA GalaxyMon, 06 Apr 2015 17:36:42 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/sport/blog/2015/apr/06/the-glorious-incompetence-of-philadelphia-union-and-the-brilliance-of-bill-hamidPhotograph: Tim Clayton/CorbisBill Hamid is many fans’ choice to succeed Tim Howard on a permanent basis.Photograph: Tim Clayton/CorbisBill Hamid is many fans’ choice to succeed Tim Howard on a permanent basis.Graham Parker and Richard Whittall2015-04-06T17:36:42ZVancouver coach Carl Robinson in Major League Soccer for the long runhttp://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/apr/04/vancouver-carl-robinson-major-league-soccer
<p>Many European players went to North America for the wrong reasons, but right from the start eight years ago Welshman Carl Robinson planned to stay and build a career</p><p>Carl Robinson had already made up his mind that he was going to swap English football for Major League Soccer by the time the news broke at the start of 2007 that David Beckham would be signing for LA Galaxy. Eight years later and a host of other players from England and beyond have been and gone, but Robinson is still living the North American dream.</p><p>After three seasons with Toronto followed by another two with New York Red Bulls, where playing alongside Thierry Henry was one of the highlights – “You’d never meet a better human being than him” – Robinson stepped up from his role as assistant at Vancouver Whitecaps to take over as head coach in December 2013. Ambitious, driven and prepared to get his “hands dirty” to find new talent, the former Wales international has long been intent on making his mark, rather than just a quick buck, in MLS.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/apr/04/vancouver-carl-robinson-major-league-soccer">Continue reading...</a>MLSVancouver WhitecapsNew York City FCLA GalaxyDavid BeckhamThierry HenryUS sportsFootballSportSat, 04 Apr 2015 13:14:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/apr/04/vancouver-carl-robinson-major-league-soccerPhotograph: Jeff Vinnick/Getty ImagesThe Vancouver Whitecaps head coach Carl Robinson has built a career in Major League Soccer after arriving in North America as a player. Photograph: Jeff Vinnick/Getty ImagesPhotograph: Jeff Vinnick/Getty ImagesThe Vancouver Whitecaps head coach Carl Robinson has built a career in Major League Soccer after arriving in North America as a player. Photograph: Jeff Vinnick/Getty ImagesStuart James2015-04-04T13:14:00ZGlimmers of hope for Orlando City, Vancouver: MLS weekend previewhttp://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2015/apr/03/glimmers-of-hope-for-orlando-city-vancouver-mls-weekend-preview
<p>The Whitecaps have won a franchise-best three straight matches, while Orlando City is proving it could have what it takes to challenge for a playoff spot</p><p>Out in the deep, murky world of data analytics in soccer, there are several different predictive models used by analysts to determine roughly where, based on performance, teams will finish at the end of the league season. Even the most sophisticated models however tend to require a four-to-six-game sample before they can make a reasonably accurate prediction.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2015/apr/03/glimmers-of-hope-for-orlando-city-vancouver-mls-weekend-preview">Continue reading...</a>MLSFootballSportUS sportsVancouver WhitecapsOrlando CityToronto FCLA GalaxyPortland TimbersFri, 03 Apr 2015 08:30:02 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2015/apr/03/glimmers-of-hope-for-orlando-city-vancouver-mls-weekend-previewPhotograph: Rich Lam/Getty ImagesVancouver’s Robert Earnshaw jumps over Portland goalkeeper Adam Kwarasey while watching his match-winning goal find the back of the net.Photograph: Rich Lam/Getty ImagesVancouver’s Robert Earnshaw jumps over Portland goalkeeper Adam Kwarasey while watching his match-winning goal find the back of the net.Richard Whittall2015-04-03T08:30:02ZKaká and Robert Earnshaw star but can MLS veterans thrive over a long season?http://www.theguardian.com/sport/blog/2015/mar/30/kaka-and-robert-earnshaw-star-but-can-mls-veterans-thrive-over-a-long-season
<p>Wise heads showed the way this weekend, while the New York teams had siffering fortunes on the pitch<br></p><p>Last week, shortly after the 33-year-old Welsh forward Robert Earnshaw <a href="http://www.walesonline.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/robert-earnshaw-retires-pay-tribute-8921325http://www.walesonline.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/robert-earnshaw-retires-pay-tribute-8921325">announced his retirement from the national team</a>, there was a brief wake among fans and journalists for the player on Twitter. With the news coming only a few days ahead of <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/mar/28/israel-wales-euro-2016-qualifying-match-report">Wales’ European Championship qualifier against Israel</a>, more than a few remembered Earnshaw’s first full international in 2002, in which <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O_r3TBwPrDk">he scored the winner in a remarkable 1-0 victory against Germany</a> in a friendly at the Millennium Stadium. It would be the first of 16 goals in 58 international appearances. </p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/sport/blog/2015/mar/30/kaka-and-robert-earnshaw-star-but-can-mls-veterans-thrive-over-a-long-season">Continue reading...</a>MLSVancouver WhitecapsOrlando CityFootballSportUS sportsMon, 30 Mar 2015 09:00:12 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/sport/blog/2015/mar/30/kaka-and-robert-earnshaw-star-but-can-mls-veterans-thrive-over-a-long-seasonPhotograph: Paul Chiasson/APMontreal Impact’s Bakary Soumare, left, and Orlando City’s Kaká battle for the ball.Photograph: Paul Chiasson/APMontreal Impact’s Bakary Soumare, left, and Orlando City’s Kaká battle for the ball.Graham Parker and Richard Whittall2015-03-30T09:00:12ZVancouver Whitecaps 1-3 Toronto FC – as it happenedhttp://www.theguardian.com/football/live/2015/mar/07/vancouver-whitecaps-vs-toronto-fc-live
<ul><li>Toronto come from behind for comfortable win</li><li>Altidore scores twice on his debut as Giovinco also impresses</li></ul><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-08T01:14:44.572Z">8.14pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>Final thoughts:</strong></p><p>A real game of two halves then, as Vancouver utterly lost their way in the second half, while Toronto, having weathered the storm and kept in the game at the half, looked the much more mature team as they eased into control in the second 45. </p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-08T01:06:27.922Z">8.06pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Final thoughts in a minute...</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-08T01:06:04.134Z">8.06pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>90 mins +5: </strong>Altidore chasing down from the front to the end of the game. And now boos ring out around BC Place as the final whistle goes!</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-08T01:04:57.527Z">8.04pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>90 mins+4: </strong>Vancouver scrambling willingly, though without much art, as they chase a lost cause. They’re screaming for a penalty now as Mattocks stumbles under pressure in the box, but it’s just a corner. Waston’s header from said corner drifts harmlessly wide.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-08T01:02:26.778Z">8.02pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>90 mins +2: </strong>Five minutes to be added on and almost immediately Vancouver are nearly given a lifeline as a looping cross is powered goalwards by Rivero’s head. Bendik’s behind it though. Most direct Vancouver have been all half, when it’s surely too late.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-08T01:01:12.272Z">8.01pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Sunderland fans may be interested to know that Jozy Altidore has just scored a Panenka.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-08T01:00:11.153Z">8.00pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Collen Warner splits the defense with a ball over the top and Altidore chests it down and draws the foul from Kah as he turns for goal. Yellow card for Kah. Altidore to take it...</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-08T00:58:45.849Z">7.58pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>88 mins: </strong>Bendik has to get up bravely to grab a floated free kick into the box, but he comes up with the ball. Vancouver were unbeaten at home against Eastern opposition last year, but that record is threatening to disappear on the opening day. </p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-08T00:56:52.791Z">7.56pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>86 mins: </strong>Vancouver resort to a hopeful long ball forward, but it runs straight through to an untroubled Bendik whohoofs the ball back into Vancouver territory, as if to say, “Try again”. This game petering out in a manner that will suit Toronto down to the ground.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-08T00:54:52.902Z">7.54pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>84 mins: </strong>Vancouver have a man over for a moment as Creavalle hurt himself in that last incident. Nothing comes of that though and if anything it’s the Whitecaps who are under pressure as a three red shirts press Kah inside his own box. Vancouver clear their lines but the ball is not where they want it to be.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-08T00:53:04.059Z">7.53pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>82 mins: </strong>So we’ve drifted into the last ten minute and there’s a hopeful yell for a penalty by the Vancouver fans behind the Toronto goal as Rivero falls over in a tangle with Creavalle on the edge of the six yard box, as he tries to reach a dangerous looking low cross from the right by Manneh. Erik Hurtado about to come on for Vancouver, who need inspiration from...somewhere. He replaces Laba.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-08T00:50:36.855Z">7.50pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>80 mins: </strong>Vancouver try to force a break and Creavalle picks up a yellow card as he runs across Harvey’s run. Luke Moore will be coming in in a minute for Giovinco, as Vanney makes his adjustments to hold his team’s lead. In fact that switch is happening now...with Toronto reshaping into a 4-4-2. Still <strong>Vancouver 1-2 Toronto</strong></p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-08T00:48:11.148Z">7.48pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>78 mins: </strong>Koffie has not done much except foul since coming on and after another adventure in clattering he picks up a yellow card. Toronto use the pause for the free kick to bring Collen Warner on for Findley, who as it stands has scored the winning goal.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-08T00:47:03.931Z">7.47pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>76 mins: </strong>Vanney is about to bring on Collen Warner, as Vancouver just show some faint stirrings of mounting a late comeback. Beitashour has Morrow scrambling to block his cross at the expense of a corner. It’s headed clear then hooked forward by Giovinco. Findley earns a free kick as he’s bundled over in the center circle vying for the loose ball and again Toronto interrupt the flow of the game.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-08T00:44:43.772Z">7.44pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>74 mins: </strong>Bradley and Cheyrou just beginning to string together those short exchanges that help their side squeeze some life out of the midfield battle. Vancouver getting frustrated and Koffie kicks out at Altidore who has dropped deep to pick up a predictable free kick and further run down the clock. The Whitecaps being made to look naive so far in this half. And time beginning to run out.</p><p>Now they do find a slight crack of space as Morales looks to have space wide left in the box for a shot, but said shot is poor and as it turns out he was offside anyway.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-08T00:41:39.028Z">7.41pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>72 mins: </strong>Beitashour commits a handball near the left corner of the box as he tries to deal with Altidore on an aerial ball. Giovinco’s free kick is charged down to the relief of the home fans, who aren’t being given much to cheer about at the moment as their side’s play fizzles out in this second half.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-08T00:40:13.677Z">7.40pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>70 mins: </strong>Rivero tries to pressure Bendik who’s forced into a loose clearance and Vancouver press for a moment. Now it’s Toronto’s turn to counter and Laba makes a late tackle on Giovinco to break it up. Not that Toronto will be troubled by the flow of the game being interrupted as things stand.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-08T00:38:23.583Z">7.38pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>68 mins: </strong>Altidore is furious as he shrugs off Koffie only to be dragged down in the center circle as he looks to turn and run at goal. From the free kick an awkward looking dipping cross almost connects with a diving Findley, but Vancouver are able to clear their lines.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-08T00:36:44.266Z">7.36pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>66 mins: </strong>Snap shot from Giovinco almost catches Ousted out, but he grabs it at the second attempt. Giovinco growing in influence as the game goes on. Manneh goes over the the right while the fresh legs of Mattocks will try to work the first half stress point of Creavalle down the left.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-08T00:34:58.523Z">7.34pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>64 mins: </strong>Kofie in for Teibert, Mattocks for Rosales, as Robinson tries to inject some pace to disrupt an increasingly comfortable looking Toronto side. </p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-08T00:33:27.421Z">7.33pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>62 mins: </strong>Beitashour scoops a tempting chip over the top as Vancouver try to react, but Bendik is off his line quickly as Manneh tries to race onto it. A few seconds later Manneh touches the ball just inside to Teibert on the edge of the box, but his shot loops up and over, for what will be his last action of the game by the look of it. Robinson making his first subs shortly.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-08T00:31:36.199Z">7.31pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>You’d have to say Toronto have looked the more likely to score so far in this half, and they do. Bradley picks out the marauding Morrow as he overlaps down the left. His cross to the edge of the six yard box should really be cut out (if it was allowed to be delivered at all) but instead Findley gets to the ball first to prod the ball up into the roof of the net for his first Toronto goal. A bad goal for the Caps to concede. Well then...</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-08T00:29:05.428Z">7.29pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>58 mins: </strong>...Giovinco whips the ball up and over the wall but it’s straight at Ousted, who pats the ball down and collects it. </p><p>Vancouver stride forward but they’re looking less sharp in this half and Morales ends up losing the ball in frustratingly straightforward manner. Robinson may be thinking about some subs to recover the urgency of the first half’s counter-attacking.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-08T00:26:46.231Z">7.26pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>56 mins: </strong>This is a decent little spell for Toronto (he typed...as Teibert intercepted a poor Toronto pass to launch a counter-attack). Cheyrou and Bradley putting their feet on the ball a little more to try and control the tempo a little more. And now they have a dangerous free kick central, and 35 yards out after Giovinco was checked...</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-08T00:24:46.510Z">7.24pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>54 mins: </strong>Toronto probing a little now in the Whitecaps half, but when they finally push the ball near the box, Giovinco’s shot is poor. </p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-08T00:23:47.308Z">7.23pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>52 mins: </strong>Vancouver take a quick throw near the corner flag, but Laba, Rosales and Morales combine to lose the chance of getting a cross in. </p><p>First second half cameo from Giovinco at the other end as he combines some short passing to help advance Toronto and with the Whitecaps stretched the ball breaks to Bradley on the edge of the box, as he drives forward to whack a shot that’s always drifting slightly wide. But that’s a decent move for the visitors.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-08T00:20:42.583Z">7.20pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>50 mins: </strong>Morales scuffs a very poor low shot well wide of the goal from outside the box. Not really a shot befitting his undoubted talent. Now Morales finds Beitashour overlapping on the right with an altogether simpler touch, but the full back’s cross loops high and straight to Bendik. Still <strong>Vancouver 1-1 Toronto</strong>.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-08T00:18:36.530Z">7.18pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>48 mins: </strong>Robinson also mentioned that with players tiring on opening day, this may a be a game for his bench to help decide things. </p><p>Whitecaps still trying to stretch the slower Toronto defense with pace and width as they move the ball from flank to flank early. No immediate look at goal though. Instead we have a few scrappy throws, interceptions and general faffing around in the opening minutes of the second half.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-08T00:15:53.795Z">7.15pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>We’re off again...</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-08T00:15:32.764Z">7.15pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>Nearly ready for second half</strong></p><p>“We’ve just got to keep doing what we’re doing,” say Carl Robinson of his Vancouver side, on the sidelines. “I don’t think we can play at this tempo for 90 minutes,” he adds - urging his team to be smart with their decision making. Teams coming out now...</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-08T00:08:59.639Z">7.08pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>Canadian soccer gif of the week:</strong></p><p>The winner has to be <a href="http://metrouk2.files.wordpress.com/2015/03/thrust.gif">Montreal coach Frank Klopas celebrating the last minute goal that took his side into the Champions League semi-final this week</a>, in the style of Kevin Bacon in Footloose / a sex ninja in chinos.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-08T00:06:20.487Z">7.06pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>Half-time thoughts:</strong></p><p>In the bigger scheme of things both coaches might be pleased with the blueprints for success for their teams they’ve seen sketched out in this first half. </p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-07T23:59:10.118Z">6.59pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Half-time thoughts in a moment</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-07T23:58:48.038Z">6.58pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>45 mins +1: </strong>Some patient approach play by Toronto ends in Giovinco accelerating into the box near the byline and earning a corner of Beitashour. Giovinco will take the corner...it’s low and pulled back towards Cheyrou but the Vancouver defense read the corner and momentarily look like breaking dangerously. They have to settle for a free kick wide left, that Morales rather makes a hash of, and that will be that for the half...</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-07T23:56:09.496Z">6.56pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>44 mins: </strong>Another Vancouver steal, this one by Laba, who goes down the right after robbing Cheyrou. The looping cross is met with an acrobatic volley by Morales from the edge of the box, but his shot doesn’t have the power to trouble Bendik. Toronto enjoy a little spell of holding on to the ball in the wake of that incident, which is frankly something of a novelty in this half, and something they’ve dearly needed to do at times.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-07T23:53:35.820Z">6.53pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>42 mins: </strong>Manneh again...steals the ball in dangerous territory then sends a tempting low ball in towards Morales from the left, only for Bendik to scoop it up at a low stretch. That pocket down the Vancouver left and the space just in front of their own defenders looking like the potentially decisive areas of the game right now.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-07T23:51:50.507Z">6.51pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>40 mins: </strong>The fifth Vancouver corner is cleared but only as far as Morales who sends a sputtering shot well wide. At the other end Giovinco tries to pick his way through on the edge of the box, only to be dispossessed and yet again it’s a fast Vancouver break and another slaloming run from Manneh, who evades Caldwell and gets a solid shot off, that’s blocked by Bendik. </p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-07T23:49:41.985Z">6.49pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>38 mins: </strong>Half-time looming then and Toronto beginning to find themselves facing up defenders in the Vancouver final third, but there’s that break again — Morales sends a ball over the top for Manneh to chase, and Perquis just cuts out his attempted square ball to Rivero in the box. Corner.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-07T23:48:10.904Z">6.48pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>36 mins: </strong>Toronto looking understandably more confident now as they move forward, but they’ll have to be wary of being caught out by those speedy Vancouver counters, while their new defense learns their line(s).</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-07T23:46:28.271Z">6.46pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>34 mins: </strong>Toronto’s BMO Field is being renovated and they won’t play a home opener until May. That seven game road run could of course prove to be a blessing in disguise if they’re not completely adrift when it starts (and the league being structured how it is backloading your home games towards the playoff end of the season is maybe no bad idea). This would be a good result to start a seven game road stretch if it holds</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-07T23:45:27.506Z">6.45pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Well that’s what they paid for...out of nothing Giovinco makes space for himself outside the box and finds Altidore’s diagonal run with the sweetest of short reverse passes. Altidore steps round Ousted and slots home to open his Toronto account. He’s done nothing much so far, but frankly that’s all he needs to do (score that is, not nothing...)</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-07T23:42:15.608Z">6.42pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>30 mins: </strong>So that pre-game prediction of Creavlle possibly being a target looks like coming true. Manneh running at him again and forcing another corner and a rise in volume in the stadium. Bendik punches the corner clear, but he’ll have to face another corner now as Vancouver turn the screw. Deep outwsinger eventually reaches Manneh, who drives a low shot across Bendik’s goal and just past the far post, with the keeper watching it wide. Still <strong>Vancouver 1-0 Toronto</strong>.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-07T23:40:08.158Z">6.40pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>28 mins: </strong>Osorio touches the ball to Findley who tries a shot from distance that’s always flying over. First contribution of any significance we’ve seen from Findley. </p><p>At other end Manneh hassles Creavalle to earn another corner. Rosales will swing this one in...no he won’t — it’s a short corner that leads to a fierce Russell Teibert shot from the edge of the box. Bendix slaps it clear and is relieved to see no white short following up, as that could have gone anywhere...</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-07T23:37:46.306Z">6.37pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>26 mins: </strong>Rosales gets clattered by Bradley as the Vancouver man jinks past him, but no yellow card, much to the disgust of Carl Robinson on the sideline. </p><p>Vancouver continuing to press high and they seem to be succeeding in unnerving Toronto, who are giving the ball away repeatedly in dangerous areas.<br /></p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-07T23:35:39.916Z">6.35pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>24 mins: </strong>Giovonco picks up the ball deep and runs at the heart of the Vancouver defense, twisting and turning to make space for the shot, then thinking better of it and squaring to Altidore. Bradley is arriving on the scene too but Vancouver are regrouping now and the move breaks down without a clear shot. Interesting test of Toronto’s character now. Down on the road in the first game of yet another new incarnation.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-07T23:33:20.923Z">6.33pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>22 mins:</strong> Rivero gives the Whitecaps the lead on his debut then, and as it stands this is a repeat scoreline of the last time these two met in this stadium in MLS play, just over two years ago. </p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-07T23:32:00.012Z">6.32pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>...they will regret that. Once again the Toronto offside trap is sprung and Rivero races free to finish low under Bendik from just inside the box. That’ll make up for his earlier miss.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-07T23:30:46.426Z">6.30pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>19 mins: </strong>First look at Giovinco’s set piece threat as he sends an inswinging free kick into the Whitecaps box. It’s headed clear but Vancouver can’t clear their lines and eventually a smashed Bradley shot is deflected almost perfectly into the path of the unmarked Giovinco in the box. His first time shot squirms wide. Toronto may regret that...</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-07T23:29:09.492Z">6.29pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>18 mins: </strong>Creavalle has to cover at the other end as Manneh finds Teibert on the overlap. Creavalle does just enough to stop Teibert picking his spot with the cross. And now he has to scramble again as Vancouver force a turnover in Toronto’s final third and Creavalle’s last ditch tackle is necessary with Manneh about to race clear.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-07T23:27:29.872Z">6.27pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>16 mins: </strong>Giovonco dinks a little ball just behind Harvey in the Vancouver left back position, but Creavalle can’t get forward fast enough down the Toronto right to pick it up. Just a glimpse of the danger posed by Giovinco though. He’s been quiet thus far.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-07T23:25:50.490Z">6.25pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>14 mins: </strong>Another decent chance for Vancouver as Manneh chases a ball over the top and beats the offside trap, but in waiting for the bounce off the artificial turf is forced to check back to shoot. Nonetheless he forces Bendik to palm the ball clear from his shot on target. Vancouver knocking on the door right now.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-07T23:24:01.214Z">6.24pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>12 mins: </strong>Fair amount of speed, and not a lot of shape to this game early on, though Toronto are beginning to get a little creaky as Vancouver try to pick their passes around them. Perquis just had to stretch to cut out a through ball down the right channel.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-07T23:22:14.352Z">6.22pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>10 mins: </strong>Morrow steps up from left back and pushes the ball wide to Altidore, but the Toronto approach play just looking a little pedestrain at the moment and the move soon breaks down. Still 0-0, though another warning for Toronto at the other end as Manneh very nearly splits the Toronto defense with a ball at an acute angle intended to free Rivero. Just intercepted.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-07T23:20:16.314Z">6.20pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>8 mins: </strong>Toronto yet to really settle here — a few sloppy touches early on. Vancouver looking marginally sharper but no clear chances as yet...ooooooh, I stand corrected. Teibert just slipped a ball across the six yard box that invited a tap in from Rivero, but he seemed to believe he was offside and hesitated. No flag and a relieved Toronto get it clear.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-07T23:17:47.529Z">6.17pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>6 mins: </strong>Kah’s popped up in attack in defense early for Vancouver - he’ll add another dimension in both boxes for the Whitecaps this year. Here he heads clear. Now we have a short break in play as Caldwell clatters his own player Creavalle, who’s back on his feet now.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-07T23:15:56.725Z">6.15pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>4 mins: </strong>Vancouver inch forward down thee right and try to work some space. they earn a corner as Rosales pressures the last man on a ball that squirms over the top. He takes the corner, looking for Kah, but Toronto force it clear. They have to face another aerial ball a moment later, but Waston heads wide under pressure.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-07T23:14:03.193Z">6.14pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>2 mins: </strong>Early free kick for Toronto just inside Whitecaps half. They work it wide, but Giovinco gets caught in possession and the Whitecaps forestall any threat.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-07T23:13:15.409Z">6.13pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>We’re off!</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-07T23:05:39.504Z">6.05pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>Your choice of games has now ended</strong></p><p>Conor Casey just missed a chance to snatch an injury time win for Philadelphia after his header from a free kick drifted just wide. Lots of blood and thunder and not a lot of ball control in that season opener, which has just ended 0-0.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-07T22:58:42.867Z">5.58pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>Moments away now</strong></p><p>Just watching the dying moments of the Philadelphia vs Colorado game, where the ten man Rapids are defending stoutly. Mastoreni’s mustache is twitching forlornly now however, as it’s just been revealed there’ll be six minutes of time added on...</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-07T22:56:43.133Z">5.56pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>Vancouver: </strong>Ousted; Beitashour, Waston, Kah, Harvey; Laba, Teibert, Rosales, Morales, Manneh; Rivero<br /></p><p><strong>Toronto: </strong>Bendik; Creavalle, Caldwell, Perquis, Morrow; Osorio, Bradley, Cheyrou, Giovinco; Findley, Altidore</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-07T22:51:45.688Z">5.51pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>Canadian soccer comes of age</strong></p><p>“Hang on”, say the pedants who bothered to read my intro, “What do you mean by claiming this is the only meeting between these two this season? What about the Canadian Championship? Surely the toughest route to Champions League qualification known to humanity, with its whopping five team field? Won’t these two be meeting there?”</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-07T22:45:11.920Z">5.45pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>CBA</strong></p><p>Of course this game, like every other game this weekend, was in doubt until just a couple of days before the season started. But with neither MLS or the players really able to afford a strike over free agency, a collective bargaining agreement was put in place that seems to do what a good deal should do i.e. please nobody.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-07T22:42:19.443Z">5.42pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>Twitter stirs</strong></p><p>Possibly mildly optimistic tweet to get us underway...</p><p>Caps v TFC gets live minute by minute coverage in The Guardian via <a href="https://twitter.com/KidWeil">@KidWeil</a> . The world is watching!</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-07T22:39:15.951Z">5.39pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>Other games are available...</strong></p><p>Last night LA Galaxy kicked off the defense of their title with a 2-0 win over Chicago Fire. D.C. United beat Montreal 1-0 earlier this afternoon, and as I write Philadelphia and Colorado are tied 0-0, though the Rapids have just gone down to ten men, with Bobby Burling seeing his second yellow (much to the chagrin of Colorado coach Pablo Mastroeni and his magnificent 19th century villain’s mustache).</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-07T22:30:44.490Z">5.30pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>Preambling…</strong></p><p>Afternoon all, and welcome to another season of MLS coverage by your super soaraway Guardian. (note the “another” dropped in there in beautifully passive aggressive fashion to welcome Sky TV’s brand new coverage of the league…we’re not proud).</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-07T22:00:01.595Z">5.00pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Graham will be here shortly. In the meantime, why not read <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/mar/06/2015-mls-team-previews-san-jose-earthquakes-to-vancouver-whitecaps">Richard Whittall’s previews of Toronto and Vancouver</a>:<br /></p><p>It’s become something of an old joke among hardened <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/torontofc">Toronto FC</a> fans: their club is the only team in the league that knows how to win the MLS Cup in January. That’s because at this same time last year, the team rolled out a major PR campaign involving the unexpected signing of two bona fide stars in Jermain Defoe and Michael Bradley, which featured a double-decker bus blazoned with the words “A Bloody Big Deal” parked outside their unveiling at a downtown Toronto press conference.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/live/2015/mar/07/vancouver-whitecaps-vs-toronto-fc-live">Continue reading...</a>MLSVancouver WhitecapsToronto FCFootballUS sportsSportSun, 08 Mar 2015 01:14:44 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/football/live/2015/mar/07/vancouver-whitecaps-vs-toronto-fc-livePhotograph: Anne-Marie Sorvin/USA Today SportsToronto FC forward Jozy Altidore (17) celebrates with teammates after scoring his first competitive goal for the team, against Vancouver Whitecaps, in Saturday’s season opener at BC Place.Photograph: Anne-Marie Sorvin/USA Today SportsToronto FC forward Jozy Altidore (17) celebrates with teammates after scoring his first competitive goal for the team, against Vancouver Whitecaps, in Saturday’s season opener at BC Place.Graham Parker2015-03-08T01:14:44Z2015 MLS team previews: San Jose Earthquakes to Vancouver Whitecapshttp://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/mar/06/2015-mls-team-previews-san-jose-earthquakes-to-vancouver-whitecaps
<p>Our four-part MLS outlook concludes with a survey of the San Jose Earthquakes, Seattle Sounders, Sporting KC, Toronto FC and Vancouver Whitecaps</p><ul><li>Team previews: <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/mar/03/2015-mls-team-previews-chicago-fire-to-fc-dallas">Chicago to Dallas</a> | <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/mar/04/2015-mls-team-previews-houston-dynamo-to-new-york-city-fc">Houston to NYCFC</a> | <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/mar/05/2015-mls-team-previews-new-york-red-bulls-to-real-salt-lake">NYRB to Real Salt Lake</a><br></li></ul><p><strong>Players in:</strong> <strong>D</strong> Paulo Renato, Marvell Wynne; <strong>M</strong> Leandro Barrera, Sanna Nyassi, Fatai Alashe; <strong>F</strong> Innocent Emeghara, Mark Sherrod</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/mar/06/2015-mls-team-previews-san-jose-earthquakes-to-vancouver-whitecaps">Continue reading...</a>MLSFootballUS sportsSportSan Jose EarthquakesSeattle SoundersSporting Kansas CityToronto FCVancouver WhitecapsFri, 06 Mar 2015 09:30:04 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/mar/06/2015-mls-team-previews-san-jose-earthquakes-to-vancouver-whitecapsPhotograph: APPhotograph: APSimon Veness, Graham Parker and Richard Whittall2015-03-06T09:30:04ZWhich of these 10 goals should win the 2014 Puskás Award? – pollhttp://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/poll/2014/nov/12/puskas-award-10-goals-2014-poll
Fifa's list of the best goals scored in the last 12 months includes the mandatory Zlatan flick and a few crackers from the World Cup, but which should win and have you seen anything better? <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/poll/2014/nov/12/puskas-award-10-goals-2014-poll">Continue reading...</a>FootballSportFifaWorld CupWorld Cup 2014Tim CahillRobin van PersieZlatan IbrahimovicDiego CostaAtlético MadridVancouver WhitecapsMLSUS sportsWed, 12 Nov 2014 17:53:39 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/poll/2014/nov/12/puskas-award-10-goals-2014-pollJeff Gross/Getty ImagesRobin van Persie scores for Hollanad against Spain at the World Cup in Brazil. Photograph: Jeff Gross/Getty ImagesJeff Gross/Getty ImagesRobin van Persie scores for Hollanad against Spain at the World Cup in Brazil. Photograph: Jeff Gross/Getty ImagesPaul Campbell2014-11-12T17:53:39ZVancouver lament a bad call and Thierry Henry shows he's still the best aroundhttp://www.theguardian.com/football/2014/oct/31/mls-vancouver-dallas-thierry-henry-red-bulls
<p>Whitecaps go home after referee Mark Geiger makes ‘one of those calls’ against Dallas, while Sporting KC ponder an alarming loss of form after defeat by the Red Bulls</p><p>There will be temptation for fans and pundits throughout the MLS playoffs to view an entire team’s season through the tiny, smeared lens of a single knockout result. Yet the Vancouver Whitecaps’ controversial early elimination against FC Dallas on Wednesday is a great example of why that’s a bad idea.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/2014/oct/31/mls-vancouver-dallas-thierry-henry-red-bulls">Continue reading...</a>MLSVancouver WhitecapsFC DallasSporting Kansas CityUS sportsFri, 31 Oct 2014 14:31:35 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/football/2014/oct/31/mls-vancouver-dallas-thierry-henry-red-bullsPhotograph: Tim Clayton/CorbisBradley Wright-Phillips takes the plaudits after scoring the winner against Sporting KC.Photograph: Tim Clayton/CorbisBradley Wright-Phillips takes the plaudits after scoring the winner against Sporting KC.Photograph: Tim Heitman/USA Today SportsFC Dallas midfielder Michel celebrates his goal against Vancouver.Photograph: Tim Heitman/USA Today SportsFC Dallas midfielder Michel celebrates his goal against Vancouver.Richard Whittall2014-10-31T14:31:35ZSeattle Sounders face LA Galaxy in MLS Supporters' Shield deciderhttp://www.theguardian.com/football/2014/oct/24/seattle-sounders-la-galaxy-mls-supporters-shield
<p>For the second week running, the two teams face-off for league glory, while Chivas USA bid farewell to MLS ... for now</p><p>It’s rare in football that big occasions live up to the hype. Many top-billed Super Sundays involving the two league-leading, star driven teams have devolved into the ether of a stodgy 1-0 win. Last weekend, however, even <a href="https://twitter.com/GaryLineker/status/523977331975921666">Gary Lineker’s snarky, MLS-baiting tweets</a> couldn’t take away from the involved and revealing <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/sport/2014/oct/20/seattle-landon-donovans-la-galaxy">2-2 Supporters’ Shield-deciding draw</a> between the LA Galaxy and the Seattle Sounders.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/2014/oct/24/seattle-sounders-la-galaxy-mls-supporters-shield">Continue reading...</a>MLSLA GalaxySeattle SoundersPortland TimbersVancouver WhitecapsNew York Red BullsReal Salt LakeChivas USAUS sportsSportFri, 24 Oct 2014 15:15:01 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/football/2014/oct/24/seattle-sounders-la-galaxy-mls-supporters-shieldPhotograph: Julio Cortez/APNew York Red Bulls and Thierry Henry still have a chance to finish in third place.Photograph: Julio Cortez/APNew York Red Bulls and Thierry Henry still have a chance to finish in third place.Photograph: Elaine Thompson/APVancouver Whitecaps have the edge over the Portland Timbers in the race for the final playoff place.Photograph: Elaine Thompson/APVancouver Whitecaps have the edge over the Portland Timbers in the race for the final playoff place.Photograph: Robert Hanashiro/USA Today SportsRobbie Keane will need to impress against LA Galaxy if he is to win MLS MVP.Photograph: Robert Hanashiro/USA Today SportsRobbie Keane will need to impress against LA Galaxy if he is to win MLS MVP.Photograph: Rick Bowmer/APChivas USA will play their final MLS game for two years this weekend.Photograph: Rick Bowmer/APChivas USA will play their final MLS game for two years this weekend.Photograph: Robert Hanashiro/USA Today SportsClint Dempsey, right, and Landon Donovan battle for the ball – and the Supporters’ Shield.Photograph: Robert Hanashiro/USA Today SportsClint Dempsey, right, and Landon Donovan battle for the ball – and the Supporters’ Shield.Richard Whittall2014-10-24T15:15:01ZAdvantage Seattle as they come back to spoil Landon Donovan’s Galaxy partyhttp://www.theguardian.com/sport/2014/oct/20/seattle-landon-donovans-la-galaxy
<ul><li>Seattle Sounders just a draw away from the Shield</li><li>Vancouver and Portland locked in battle for last playoff spot</li><li><a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2014/oct/17/mls-sync-usmnt-international-soccer-schedule">MLS needs international breaks</a><br></li></ul><p>The #LegenD hashtag has had a healthy workout over the last couple of weeks, as Landon Donovan has prepared to play his final game for the national team, and final regular season home game in front of his LA Galaxy fans. </p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/sport/2014/oct/20/seattle-landon-donovans-la-galaxy">Continue reading...</a>MLSFootballSportUS sportsLA GalaxySeattle SoundersVancouver WhitecapsPortland TimbersDC UnitedNew England RevolutionHouston DynamoSan Jose EarthquakesSporting Kansas CityMon, 20 Oct 2014 12:07:48 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/sport/2014/oct/20/seattle-landon-donovans-la-galaxyPhotograph: Robert Hanashiro/USA Today SportsSeattle Sounders FC forward Clint Dempsey grabs LA Galaxy midfielder Landon Donovan during the team’s 2-2 draw on Sunday night. Donovan had a quiet game in his final regular-season home game for the Galaxy.Photograph: Robert Hanashiro/USA Today SportsSeattle Sounders FC forward Clint Dempsey grabs LA Galaxy midfielder Landon Donovan during the team’s 2-2 draw on Sunday night. Donovan had a quiet game in his final regular-season home game for the Galaxy.Graham Parker and Richard Whittall2014-10-20T12:07:48ZTitle-chasing Seattle Sounders host Vancouver as MLS playoffs draw nearhttp://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2014/oct/10/seattle-sounders-vancouver-playoffs-mls-previews
<p>Obafemi Martins and Clint Dempsey have been banging in the goals for the Seattle Sounders, but the team has not kept a clean sheet since August 30</p><ul><li><a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2014/oct/10/-sp-thierry-henry-jermain-defoe-rivalry-north-london-america">Thierry Henry v Jermain Defoe: a transatlantic rivalry</a></li></ul><p>Regional rivalries make football great even in the most mundane competitive circumstances, but MLS’ Pacific Northwestern rivals Vancouver, Portland and Seattle taking things to a new level as the 2014 MLS season comes to a close. </p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2014/oct/10/seattle-sounders-vancouver-playoffs-mls-previews">Continue reading...</a>MLSSeattle SoundersVancouver WhitecapsNew York Red BullsToronto FCUSALA GalaxyChivas USAFC DallasSportUS sportsFri, 10 Oct 2014 17:00:14 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2014/oct/10/seattle-sounders-vancouver-playoffs-mls-previewsPhotograph: Hannah Yoon/APJermain Defoe will play for Toronto FC in the crucial game against New York Red Bulls.Photograph: Hannah Yoon/APJermain Defoe will play for Toronto FC in the crucial game against New York Red Bulls.Photograph: Mark J. Terrill/APFelix Borja scored the winner for Chivas USA against Real Salt Lake last weekend.Photograph: Mark J. Terrill/APFelix Borja scored the winner for Chivas USA against Real Salt Lake last weekend.Photograph: Kelvin Kuo/USA Today SportsLA Galaxy will be without Landon Donovan for this weekend’s game.Photograph: Kelvin Kuo/USA Today SportsLA Galaxy will be without Landon Donovan for this weekend’s game.Photograph: FRANCISCO LEONG/AFP/Getty ImagesCan the Seattle Sounders cope without DeAndre Yedlin? He will miss the game this weekend as he is on international duty.Photograph: FRANCISCO LEONG/AFP/Getty ImagesCan the Seattle Sounders cope without DeAndre Yedlin? He will miss the game this weekend as he is on international duty.Photograph: Ted S. Warren/APObafemi Martins has been in hot goalscoring form for the Seattle Sounders ahead of their match against the Vancouver Whitecaps.Photograph: Ted S. Warren/APObafemi Martins has been in hot goalscoring form for the Seattle Sounders ahead of their match against the Vancouver Whitecaps.Richard Whittall2014-10-10T17:00:14ZDC United clinch MLS playoff spot against Kansas Cityhttp://www.theguardian.com/sport/2014/oct/06/dc-united-confirm-mls-playoff-spot
<ul><li>DC’s draw with Sporting KC completes turnaround<br></li><li>Landon Donovan breaks MLS assist record</li><li>Vancouver and Portland both win in battle for West</li></ul><p>DC United clinched a playoff spot at RFK Stadium on Friday night – as a rain-soaked draw with Sporting Kansas City was enough to see them over the line. It completed stage one of one of the most remarkable turnarounds in league history, as last year’s basement team became the first Eastern Conference side to secure qualification for the playoffs.<br /></p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/sport/2014/oct/06/dc-united-confirm-mls-playoff-spot">Continue reading...</a>MLSFootballSportUS sportsDC UnitedSporting Kansas CityNew York Red BullsHouston DynamoLA GalaxyToronto FCSan Jose EarthquakesPortland TimbersVancouver WhitecapsFC DallasPhiladelphia UnionChicago FireNew England RevolutionColumbus CrewMon, 06 Oct 2014 15:04:02 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/sport/2014/oct/06/dc-united-confirm-mls-playoff-spotPhotograph: Tony Avelar/APThe San Jose Earthquakes forward Chris Wondolowski, right, scores from close range past Portland Timbers’ goalkeeper Donovan Ricketts.Photograph: Tony Avelar/APThe San Jose Earthquakes forward Chris Wondolowski, right, scores from close range past Portland Timbers’ goalkeeper Donovan Ricketts.Photograph: Steven M Falk/APThe Chicago Fire forward Quincy Amarikwa, left, keeps the ball from Philadelphia Union’s Amobi Okugo.Photograph: Steven M Falk/APThe Chicago Fire forward Quincy Amarikwa, left, keeps the ball from Philadelphia Union’s Amobi Okugo.Photograph: Kelvin Kuo/USA Today SportsMVP candidate Robbie Keane and LA Galaxy are looking in ominous form. Keane scored twice in a 3-0 defeat of Toronto FC.Photograph: Kelvin Kuo/USA Today SportsMVP candidate Robbie Keane and LA Galaxy are looking in ominous form. Keane scored twice in a 3-0 defeat of Toronto FC.Graham Parker and Richard Whittall2014-10-06T15:04:02ZMichael Bradley and Jermaine Jones make case for MLS designated playershttp://www.theguardian.com/sport/2014/sep/29/michael-bradley-jermaine-jones-mls-designated-players
<p>USA midfielders shine for Toronto and New England while Galaxy outclass New York and playoff race hots up</p><p>A few seasons ago we could still talk of the jury being out on designated players and what they did to MLS squad construction. Indeed, when David Beckham combined with Robbie Keane to set up Landon Donovan’s winning goal for the LA Galaxy in the 2011 MLS Cup, it was the first time a team with designated players had won the trophy.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/sport/2014/sep/29/michael-bradley-jermaine-jones-mls-designated-players">Continue reading...</a>MLSUS sportsFootballSportLA GalaxyNew York Red BullsToronto FCPortland TimbersSporting Kansas CityNew England RevolutionSeattle SoundersChivas USAReal Salt LakeVancouver WhitecapsMon, 29 Sep 2014 12:43:55 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/sport/2014/sep/29/michael-bradley-jermaine-jones-mls-designated-playersPhotograph: Ted S Warren/APClint Dempsey shoots on goal as Chivas USA’s Jhon Kennedy Hurtado defends.Photograph: Ted S Warren/APClint Dempsey shoots on goal as Chivas USA’s Jhon Kennedy Hurtado defends.Photograph: Nick Turchiaro/USA Today SportsNick Hagglund is congratulated by Michael Bradley and forward Luke Moore.Photograph: Nick Turchiaro/USA Today SportsNick Hagglund is congratulated by Michael Bradley and forward Luke Moore.Photograph: Anne-Marie Sorvin/USA Today SportsReal Salt Lake goalkeeper Jeff Attinella saves a penalty from Pedro Morales.Photograph: Anne-Marie Sorvin/USA Today SportsReal Salt Lake goalkeeper Jeff Attinella saves a penalty from Pedro Morales.Photograph: Nick Turchiaro/USA Today SportsMichael Bradley celebrates his winning goal for Toronto FC against Portland TimbersPhotograph: Nick Turchiaro/USA Today SportsMichael Bradley celebrates his winning goal for Toronto FC against Portland TimbersGraham Parker and Richard Whittall2014-09-29T12:43:55Z